Doncaster residents urged to help others who may be in need this Christmas

Published:09:11Thursday 08 December 2016

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Doncaster residents who may be feeling the pressures of life this Christmas are being urged up open up and talk to each other about their issues.

The suicide prevention charity, Samaritans, is appealing for members of the public to stop striving for a perfect Christmas this year and have what it’s calling a #RealChristmas instead - which the organisation claims could help to save lives.

Staff at the Samaritans branch in Thorne Road are urging friends and loved ones to give the gift of listening and take the time to understand what someone close to them may be going through.

They will be promoting the campaign throughout the festive season on Twitter using the hashtag #RealChristmas.

“We know that one in five adults has felt suicidal – it’s not that uncommon and can happen to absolutely anyone. On average, more than 500 people take their own lives in the UK every month and every death from suicide is a devastating tragedy.

“So, away from the idyllic images and all the hype around the season’s celebrations, let’s get real about how we can save lives, not just at Christmas but all year round. And that’s by listening to how a person who may be having a tough time really thinks and feels.”

Contact the Samaritans freephone on 116 123.

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